Okeechobee Organizers Confirm Death of Attendee Following 2023 Festival

The victim was identified as Steven Nguyen, 26, according to a local report.

In the wake of the event's 2023 edition, the organizers of Florida's Okeechobee Music & Arts Festival have confirmed the death of one attendee.

The victim was identified as Steven Nguyen, 26, according to local Baton Rouge ABC affiliate WBRZ News. The station today reported that the Okeechobee County Sheriff's Office has planned an autopsy and launched an investigation into Nguyen's death, which they've attributed to an "apparent drowning."

Taking to the festival's verified Instagram account, Okeechobee's organizers lamented Nguyen's death.

"Out of respect to those affected by this tragedy, we have refrained from commenting prematurely," the statement reads. "We will continue to provide our full support to the authorities, who are determining the cause."

Those close to Nguyen have now launched a GoFundMe campaign to support his family.

"Steven Nguyen is an angel who touched many hearts and who we all loved dearly," reads the campaign's description. "We’re starting this fund to help Stevie’s family and roommates in this time of need. Thank you all for your loving support in remembrance of the joyous light that we all knew Stevie to be. 

The Okeechobee Music & Arts Festival festival took place March 2-5. You can read the full statement below.

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